Recognizing and Addressing Cracked Tooth Symptoms

Bright Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry provides treatment of cracked teeth in Fort Walton Beach, FL.

Symptoms
Cracked teeth can present a variety of symptoms, including pain when chewing, sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks, and pressure sensitivity. Because the pain often comes and goes, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the discomfort.

Early Detection
It can also be challenging to identify which tooth is causing the pain. For this reason, your dentist may refer you to an endodontic specialist. Endodontists utilize advanced tools like surgical microscopes, which may offer more precision than the technology typically used by general dentists.

Chewing on a cracked tooth can worsen the damage and increase the risk of infection. Even slight movement of the cracked pieces during chewing can irritate the tooth’s pulp, causing pain. When the bite is released, the crack can close quickly, triggering sharp pain. Over time, the pulp becomes more damaged, leading to more consistent pain and potential infection that can spread to the surrounding gums and bone.

Types of Cracks and Treatment

  • Craze Lines: Small, shallow cracks known as craze lines are common and do not require treatment. These cracks are limited to the tooth’s enamel and do not cause pain or damage, although they may affect the tooth's appearance.
  • Fractured Cusp: A fractured cusp occurs when the hard chewing surface of a tooth cracks and may break off. While this may not cause pain, it’s important to have the tooth examined. A portion of the tooth may need to be removed to prevent further damage. If the fracture doesn’t reach the tooth’s interior, a root canal is typically unnecessary.
  • Cracked Tooth: A vertical crack that extends from the chewing surface towards the root may require a root canal to relieve pain, prevent infection, and save the tooth. After root canal treatment, your dentist can restore the tooth’s shape for both function and appearance.
  • Cracked Tooth Beyond the Gumline: A vertical crack that extends into the root and below the gumline may be too severe to treat with a root canal. In such cases, extraction may be necessary instead of attempting a restoration.